Much like Dhoni’s leadership, fostering engagement in organizations is about creating a culture of trust, inclusivity, and shared responsibility. When employees feel included, trusted, and supported, they become more engaged and connected to the organization’s success. This culture of engagement drives performance, innovation, and collective achievement—just as it did for Dhoni’s cricket team. Often touted as a buzzword, employee engagement, when done strategically, is a powerful driver of sustainable success. Organizations that prioritize and integrate employee engagement into their business strategy not only build a resilient workforce but also foster a culture that supports long-term growth and innovation.
Research shows that companies with highly engaged employees outperform their competitors by 202%, experience 41% lower absenteeism, and generate 21% greater profitability than those with low engagement levels.
A cornerstone of employee engagement is creating a culture of trust and psychological safety. When employees feel psychologically safe, they are more likely to take risks, express their ideas, and be innovative without fear of retribution or failure. This freedom to think and act creatively fosters a more dynamic and competitive organization.
Organizations that fail to cultivate psychological safety often face disengagement, stress, and burnout, which can result in high turnover. According to research employee turnover can cost businesses 1.5 to 2 times the employee’s annual salary, not including the loss of institutional knowledge, lowered morale, and reduced productivity.Engagement starts at the top. Leaders who are genuinely invested in their people and purpose inspire the same level of commitment across the organization. These leaders don’t just manage; they mentor, coach, and develop talent. They prioritize people and create an environment where employees can thrive.
- Employees should have a clear understanding of how their work contributes to the company’s mission. This helps them feel connected to the bigger picture and motivated to succeed.
- Encourage employees to share their ideas, feedback, and concerns without fear of judgment. Leaders should be approachable and willing to listen, as this fosters trust and mutual respect.
- Regularly acknowledging employees for their hard work and achievements, whether through formal awards or simple words of appreciation, boosts morale and reinforces their sense of purpose.
- Providing professional development opportunities, mentorship, and career advancement pathways keeps employees engaged and invested in their future with the company.
- Burnout is one of the quickest ways to disengage employees. Encourage a healthy work-life balance by offering flexible working hours, mental health support, and a culture that values well-being.
The Business Case for Engagement: Engaged employees are not only more productive, but they also tend to stay with the company longer. This reduces turnover costs and helps retain institutional knowledge, which is vital for maintaining a competitive edge. A study by Aon India in 2021 revealed that disengaged employees in India could cost businesses up to Rs 1.1 lakh crore annually due to lost productivity.
But beyond the financial impact, engaged employees become advocates for the company, helping to build a positive employer brand. In a competitive job market, attracting top talent is no longer just about offering a good salary. Candidates want to work for organizations that have a clear sense of purpose and a positive work culture—both of which are reflected in how engaged the current employees are.
Looking Ahead, The Future of Work is Human. As the future of work continues to evolve, technology will undoubtedly play a major role in shaping how we work. By investing in employee engagement and fostering a culture of psychological safety, organizations can unlock their team’s full potential. This is not just about driving short-term results—it’s about building a sustainable foundation for long-term success. As the business landscape changes, one thing will remain constant: engaged, motivated employees are the lifeblood of any thriving organization.
The author is co-Founder of ATP.